WILLEMSTAD - Prime Minister Gilmar ‘Pik’ Pisas (MFK) believes the chances of early elections in Curaçao are growing as uncertainty looms over the possible resignation of KEM party leader Michelangelo ‘Lo’ Martines. Martines, currently detained on suspicion of drug trafficking and money laundering, has left the majority status of the Parliament in doubt. KEM is expected to make a decision regarding his resignation tomorrow.
Martines' arrest has prevented him from continuing his duties as a Member of Parliament. If he steps down, a replacement can be appointed; however, failure to do so would result in the loss of the current parliamentary majority.
Prime Minister Pisas has already initiated talks with Anthony Godett, the second candidate on the KEM list, and independent MP Corine Djaoen-Genaro. “Both politicians have indicated they need more time to consider their options,” stated Pisas.
This week, Pisas met with the Electoral Council to discuss the possibility of calling early elections. The MFK party is set to decide tomorrow whether to wait longer for a resolution or proceed with dissolving Parliament.
If Parliament is dissolved, new elections would be scheduled for January 24. "Political parties would then need to submit their candidate lists to the Electoral Council by December 6. The new Parliament would be officially installed on February 15," Pisas announced.
Should MFK choose to delay the decision by an additional week, these dates would be pushed back accordingly.